The following skill level sets are a guide for evaluating your own level. They were developed utilizing both existing guidelines listed by the USAPA on their website (www.usapa.org) and refinements by larger pickleball clubs. Members will be rated using the USAPA Skill Assessment Sheets; there are links to these sheets under the TPC Skill Level Ratings section of this website.
Newby is a person who has just joined the club and may not be able to hit the ball across the net or return balls, doesn't know the rules of play, scoring, etc. This person probably has not played another racquet sport such as tennis, racquetball, paddle-ball, etc. This person should be encouraged to take the Beginner lessons prior to playing during drop-in. The Newbie grouping will only be used during clinics instruction.
Beginner either has had experience in other racquet sports, or has taken Beginner lessons, or has been playing with others for a while who have taught the person the basic rules of play and scoring, etc. Beginners should not join the Novice Ladder until their skills improve commensurate with the Novice Player Skill List. The following skill level sets are a guide for evaluating your own level. They were developed utilizing both existing guidelines listed by the USAPA on their website (www.usapa.org) and refinements by larger pickleball clubs.
4.0 skill level describes players who are capable of consistently executing at above a 3.5 skill level. The 4.0 player will distinguish themselves from the 3.5 player by possessing increased skills and strategy, or by more speed, power or consistency.
At this advanced level of play, movement to a 4.5 or 5.0 rating level must be achieved through USA Pickleball’s sanctioned tournament play and a validated UTPR rating.